Air Fried Apple Wedges with Caramel Whipped Cream Dipping Sauce is a simple and delightful treat that’s perfect for any time of day. The apple wedges come out crisp on the outside and tender inside, giving you a wonderful mix of texture with every bite. Paired with a sweet and creamy caramel whipped cream, this snack feels special but is super easy to make.
I love making this when I want something quick to satisfy a little sweet craving without too much fuss. The air fryer makes the apple wedges nicely golden and keeps them from getting soggy, which is a game changer. My favorite part is swirling them into that smooth, caramel whipped cream, which adds just the right hint of sweetness to balance the fruity apple.
For serving, I usually pop this out as a fun dessert or an afternoon pick-me-up. It’s great for sharing too because everyone can dunk their own apple wedges into the sauce. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little cinnamon on top to give it an extra cozy touch, and that never disappoints. This recipe is definitely one of those that’s both comforting and a little bit fancy without trying too hard.
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I like using Honeycrisp or Fuji because they hold their shape well and taste sweet. If you prefer tartness, Granny Smith apples are great too. Leaving the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients.
Butter: Melted butter helps the cinnamon and sugar stick and adds a rich flavor. You can swap it for coconut oil or a neutral oil if you want a dairy-free option.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought caramel works fine, but homemade adds a personal touch. For a lighter dip, try adding a bit of maple syrup or honey instead.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Full-fat cream whips best and creates a smooth texture. If you want a lighter version, use coconut cream, but it whips differently and has a coconut flavor.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crisp Apple Wedges in the Air Fryer?
The key to crisp apple wedges is even spacing and the right temperature. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat your air fryer so it’s hot from the start, about 375°F (190°C).
- Coat the apple wedges evenly with butter, cinnamon, and sugar to help caramelize the surface.
- Place the apples in a single layer without overcrowding to allow air to circulate.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to brown all sides.
- Watch closely near the end so the apples get golden but don’t burn.
Following these steps gives you wedges that are tender inside with a lightly crisp and spiced outside, perfect for dipping!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – crisps the apple wedges quickly without oil soaking in.
- Mixing bowls – for tossing apples and whipping the cream neatly.
- Hand mixer or whisk – makes whipping the cream smooth and light easy.
- Small serving bowl or ramekin – to hold the caramel whipped cream for dipping.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – to slice apples safely and evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try pear wedges instead of apples for a softer, milder taste.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice with the cinnamon for more warmth.
- Mix in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the whipped cream for crunch.
- Swap caramel sauce for chocolate syrup to make a different dipping flavor.
How to Make Air Fried Apple Wedges with Caramel Whipped Cream Dipping Sauce?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apple Wedges:
- 3 large apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and cut into wedges (skin on)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
For the Caramel Whipped Cream:
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional)
- Pinch of ground cinnamon (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and 10-12 minutes to air fry the apple wedges. Whipping the cream takes just a few minutes. In total, you’ll spend around 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and tasty snack or dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Wedges:
In a large bowl, toss the apple wedges with the melted butter, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar. Make sure all the wedges are evenly coated with the spice and sugar mixture.
2. Air Fry the Apples:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the apple wedges in a single layer in the basket. You might need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, giving the basket a gentle shake halfway through so the apples brown evenly. The wedges should be golden and slightly crisp on the edges when done.
3. Make the Caramel Whipped Cream:
While the apples cook, pour the chilled heavy whipping cream and caramel sauce into a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the cream until soft peaks form. If you want it sweeter, add powdered sugar and whip a little longer to combine. Keep the whipped cream cool until serving.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the warm apple wedges around a small bowl filled with the caramel whipped cream. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the cream and apples for a lovely finishing touch. Dip the crispy, spiced apple wedges into the creamy caramel sauce and enjoy your cozy treat!
Can I Use Frozen Apple Slices for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to avoid extra moisture, which can prevent crisping in the air fryer.
How Should I Store Leftover Apple Wedges and Whipped Cream?
Store leftover apple wedges in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The whipped cream is best fresh but can be refrigerated for a day; give it a quick whisk before serving again.
Can I Make the Caramel Whipped Cream Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Whip the cream just before serving for best texture, but you can prepare the caramel sauce in advance to save time.
What’s a Good Substitute if I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?
You can bake the apple wedges in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until crisp and golden.
